Influential Women in the Aviation Industry Today: Shaping the Future of Flight

Women have helped shape aviation over the last few decades. From Amelia Earhart, the first women to fly solo across the Atlantic, to female aviation leaders of today. What used to be a male-dominated field now welcomes women to aviation industry roles. More women are training as aircraft mechanics, pilots, and engineers. They are continuing to help shape the future of flight.

Women bring new ideas, different ways of thinking, and strong leadership to the table. Their work helps solve problems, improve safety, and push innovation. Whether it’s in hangars, on runways, or in boardrooms, their skills are making a difference.

The Aviation Institute of Maintenance program helps give women the chance to master these important skills. Women are flying higher in leadership. Many now hold top jobs at airlines, airports, and aviation companies. Their vision is helping set new goals for safety and training. Schools like AIM support women in aviation and are helping create a stronger workforce.

Girls now see female pilots, mechanics, and engineers and realize they can work in aviation too. Change matters and you can be part of that change by entering the aviation industry and giving back to the next generation.

Who are Some Influential Women in Aviation?

More women are flying high in aviation today and making a significant contribution. Here are five leaders helping shape the future of flight:

Stephanie Chung – Chief Growth Officer, Wheels Up

• Chung is one of the first Black women to lead a major private aviation company. At Wheels Up, she focuses on growth and building access to private flights. Her leadership is helping open doors for underrepresented groups in aviation.

Captain Tammie Jo Shults – Former Navy Pilot and Commercial Captain

Mireille Goyer – Founder, Women of Aviation Worldwide Week

• Goyer started a global movement to encourage women to explore aviation careers. Her outreach efforts help raise interest in aircraft maintenance and engineering. She has helped thousands of young women take their first steps into aviation.

Yolanka Wulff – Executive Director, Community Air Mobility Initiative (CAMI)

• Wulff works in advanced air mobility—an area focused on electric and drone aircraft. 
• Her work supports cleaner, safer, and more efficient flight systems. This has a direct impact on the tools and systems aviation technicians will maintain in the future.

Patricia Gilbert – Executive Vice President, National Air Traffic Controllers Association

• While not a mechanic, Gilbert plays a key role in aircraft safety. Her work supports the people guiding planes and the systems techs keep running. She’s a voice for worker training, safety, and innovation.

Women in aviation maintenance are helping drive improvements in aircraft safety and performance. Their work keeps planes air worthy and passengers safe.

How to Become an Aviation Maintenance Technician 

Here is a step-by-step guide to becoming an aviation maintenance technician:

Step #1. Finish high school or get a GED

A high school diploma or GED is needed before starting the training program at AIM. 

This allows you to focus on Math, science, and other STEM classes.

Step #2. Enroll in an FAA-approved program like AIM

The Aviation Institute of Maintenance offers aviation maintenance technician training through an associate degree. You will be well prepared for a new career.

Step #3. Prepare for FAA certification

To work as an aviation maintenance technician, you need FAA certification. AIM’s program helps you train for both Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) ratings.

Step #4. Take and pass the FAA exams

Once training is complete, you’ll take written, oral, and practical exams. Passing these gives you the A&P certification.

Step #5. Get on-the-job experience

Many AIM graduates start working with airlines, repair shops, or manufacturers. This early experience helps build confidence and skills that prepare you for a lifelong career. 

Plus, we offer career services to help you find a job you are passionate about.

The industry needs more aviation maintenance technicians. We give you a path to a new career. With our training, certification, and support from our instructors, you will be able to succeed, regardless of background or gender.

How are Women Shaping the Future of Aviation? 

Women are changing what the future of aviation looks like. More women are entering the field, stepping into both technical and leadership roles. As the industry evolves, so does their impact. Women are filling available roles with the right skill and fresh ideas. 

Aviation is also evolving with new technology. Drones, electric aircraft, and automation are creating new jobs. Women with the right training can lead the change. Their work can support cleaner, faster, and more advanced flight systems.

For women interested in aviation maintenance, here are a few helpful resources:

• Women in Aviation International – Scholarships, networking, and events.

• Association for Women in Aviation Maintenance (AWAM) – Training, mentorship, and industry news.

• Women of Aviation Worldwide Week – Annual events and outreach to inspire girls and women.

These groups help women build skills, gain connections, and stay informed. With access to training and support, more women can enter and grow in the aviation maintenance field.

Final Thoughts on Women in Aviation

Influential women in aviation continue to inspire the next generation by showing what’s possible. Leaders like Captain Tammie Jo Shults, who safely landed a Southwest flight after engine failure, prove that the right skills and being calm under pressure can save lives. Stephanie Chung, former Chief Growth Officer at Wheels Up, has shown women and people of color that they can achieve executive roles. Mireille Goyer, founder of Women of Aviation Worldwide Week, has introduced thousands of girls to careers in flight and aircraft maintenance through events and outreach.

Seeing these leaders in action helps young women picture themselves in aviation roles—from working on engines to leading aviation companies. Female mentors and role models provide career advice, support, and real-world examples of success in technical fields. Their stories can help motivate you to take the first step toward aviation maintenance careers. And AIM is here to help.

Want to Learn More?

Are you ready to commit 21 months to becoming a certified avionics technician? An investment in your future is the best investment you can make. Now that you know that an Associate of Applied Science degree in Aviation Maintenance is a smart path to enter the industry, it is time to learn more about how the AAS Degree Aviation Maintenance Technology at Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM) will help you start your new career.